Manchester United legend Cristiano Ronaldo aimed a thinly veiled dig at Manchester City striker Erling Haaland after his impressive goalscoring output in 2023.
Ronaldo, who left Old Trafford for the second time in 2022, finished 2023 as the top scorer in the world after he scored 54 times in 59 matches for club and country.
The United legend’s goalscoring tally placed him ahead of Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane and PSG’s Kylian Mbappe (both on 52) and City star Haaland (50).
Ronaldo has scored 24 times in 25 appearances across all competitions this season for Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner moved to Al Nassr after his contract with United was terminated following his fallout with Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag.
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Ronaldo’s sly dig on Haaland
City star Haaland lifted the Best Men’s Player of the Year award at the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai on Friday, with Ronaldo scooping the Fans’ Player of the Year.
Haaland, who was previously linked with United, made a sensational impact at City in his debut season in England and lifted a continental treble with the club.
City manager Pep Guardiola, City midfielder Rodri and City No 1 Ederson also took home awards at the Globe Soccer Awards.
Ronaldo, who previously won six Best Men’s Player of the Year awards, didn’t pass up the opportunity to take a little swipe at Haaland.
“I was the best goalscorer this season, imagine beating young animals like Haaland… I’m proud,” he said.
“And I’ll be 39 soon! I like when people doubt again about me and then I’m successful. I don’t get affected by the criticism.”
Ronaldo on his future in football and retirement
Ronaldo will turn 39 next month and his long-term future in football remains shrouded in mystery, despite maintaining a top level of fitness.
The 38-year-old Portuguese superstar did not retire from international duty with Portugal after the 2022 World Cup and is set to play at Euro 2024 this summer.
Ronaldo admitted that he does not know when he will officially call it time on his legendary career, though he hilariously suggested he has another 10 years in him.
“The moment I finish, I don’t know, to be honest,” he said.
“Of course, it will be soon, soon I mean 10 years more.
“No, I am joking, I don’t know, let’s see.”
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